iShares S&P U.S. Preferred Stock Index Fund (NYSE: PFF) — This income exchange-traded fund (ETF) seeks to track the performance of the U.S. Preferred Stock Index. It pays a dividend of $2.58, yielding 6.47% (SEC 30-day yield of 6.09%).

PFF has traded in a narrow range of $38.50 to $40 for more than nine months. However, in times of crisis, the fund will fluctuate. Although not shown on the chart, the low of last year was made in May below $36 on rumors of the possible failure of some European banks, which turned out to be false. Following the mini-crisis, the fund sprang back to its normal trading range.

Note that accumulation is rising as more investors find this preferred stock fund a valuable addition to their portfolios to satisfy their long-term income and diversification needs.

If you have questions or comments for Sam Collins, please e-mail him at samailc@cox.net.